The role of business is changing. It is now widely accepted that business has to do more than make a profit. It also must drive social and environmental change.

A combination of factors – evolving relationships between developed and emerging economies, global institutions and nation states and public and private sectors – has led to a greater understanding of the connection and interdependency between business and society. There is an expectation that business addresses social and environmental issues through its operations, products and services and its unique expertise.

At EY, we do this through:

Our marketplace The most significant impact we can have on society is by supporting global and local economic stability and growth, which in turn provides opportunities to address some of the major issues that the world is facing. It’s through our client work and the influence we can have on the wider business world by making a commitment to audit independence, financial transparency and sound governance to build trust in the capital markets, and by advising our clients to support their successful growth that we can contribute to a better working world.

Our workplace While our core business is all about delivering exceptional service to our clients, we know that if we attract and retain the best people – and invest in them – we will deliver the best results for our clients. We pride ourselves on having the highest performing teams and want to be a highly inclusive organization that creates an engaging environment where our people can develop to their full potential.

Supporting our communities Building on our global commitment to building a better working world through our work with our clients and our markets, we also invest in our communities both local and in developing countries. Through our peoples’ time and skills, we invest in the education of tomorrow’s workforce to ensure that the skills and characteristics required to enable businesses and societies to thrive are available.

We know, too, that entrepreneurs can transform economies, drive innovation and change communities. We invest, therefore, in small- to medium-size businesses, social enterprises and entrepreneurs, particularly women, who can help restore and create economic and social wellbeing.

Managing our environmental impact The biggest impact we can have on contributing to minimizing the negative effects of climate change is by supporting our clients and the marketplace as they move towards a low carbon economy. That said, we have a commitment and a responsibility to manage our own operations in a way that reduces our own environmental footprint.

Please note: EY does not accept unsolicited requests for funding or volunteer engagements.

EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more, of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients.